This publication is designed to assist early childhood providers, cooks, and parents in hygienic food preparation and a healthy diet provision for young children in Australian child care. The guide recommends nutritional requirements for children, using the five food groups as a guide for meal planning. The Australian dietary guidelines are also outlined. Also discussed are: (1) food storage after purchase and in the refrigerator, the cupboard, and in children's packed lunches; (2) hygienic food preparation procedures; (3) mealtime routines and the importance of consistency and flexibility to allow for individual needs; and (4) use of small groups, the mealtime environment, and outdoor meals. The guide recommends the use of mealtimes to broaden children's perception of different cultures, and includes sample recipes of food eaten in different countries. Also outlined are: developmental guidelines regarding feeding oneself and utensil use; food presentation guidelines which include variety, flavor, texture, and size issues; and day care accommodations for breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and cleaning recommendations. A checklist is included to allow readers to assess their center's with regard to nutrition and hygiene. contains a 14-item bibliography. (KDFB)